Respiratory Effects of Exposure to Diesel Exhaust

Many farm vehicles are powered by diesel fuel. Diesel exhaust contains many well-known air pollutants including nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and fine particulate matter smaller than 10 |im in diameter (PM10). In the Agricultural Health Study, the estimated prevalence of exposure to diesel fumes was 93% based on questionnaires administered to farmers. Diesel exhaust and diesel exhaust particles appear to play a role in respiratory and allergic diseases and have been associated with exacerbation of asthma.